The 5-to-1 Rule Gottman Scale

… states that the ratio of positive to negative interactions within a relationship must be at least 5:1 in order to achieve a stable relationship and a high level of relationship satisfaction. In concrete terms, this means that not taking out the garbage once when it’s actually your turn weighs as much as emptying the dishwasher, taking out the garbage, hanging out the washing, making breakfast and cleaning the fireplace once. This surprisingly high ratio of positive to negative interactions for many patients naturally applies not only to household activities, but also to statements, comments, attention and physicality.

Gottman’s extensive research has found that relationships that have a lower ratio of positive to negative gestures are associated with higher levels of dissatisfaction and an increased likelihood of separation. This is why the 5:1 constant is super important for all people who come to us with a relationship concern. Not only does it help to improve partnerships, but it can also be applied to parent-child relationships.

For psychoeducation and further work on Gottman’s 5:1 rule, you will receive two worksheets with this download, each worksheet comes in color version and a copy-friendly black and white version. The first worksheet contains the most important information about the 5:1 rule, while the second contains space for your patient´s own examples, past situations or concrete plans to improve interaction, which not only helps to improve partnerships, but can also be applied to parent-child relationships.

This therapy tool is also included in the English Worksheets Mega Bundle which includes all English worksheets in one download at a 10% rebate.